Chair: Hon. Joanne D. Quiñones
2026 Summer Internship Program
The Latino Judges Association is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications for the 2026 Latino Judges Association Summer Internship Program which provides the selected law students with a very unique experience.
The intern(s) will work under the supervision of a Judge or Justice assigned to the New York City, New York State or Federal Court. The intern(s) will rotate among the courts (Court of Appeals, Appellate Division, Court of Claims, Supreme Court, Family Court, Criminal Court, Civil Court, Housing Court, Town Court, City Court and/or Federal Court) on a weekly to bi-weekly basis.
The 2026 LJA Summer Internship Program will begin on June 1, 2026 and end on August 7, 2026. The intern(s) will receive a $5,000 stipend.
Applications are due by January 30, 2026 at 5 PM. Applications and all accompanying materials may be sent via e-mail (preferred) to Hon. Joanne D. Quiñones at jquinone@nycourts.gov or via mail to:
Hon. Joanne D. Quiñones, Supreme Court, Kings County – Criminal Term, 320 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
Click here for the 2026 Summer Application.
Summer 2025
Cristina Nieves
During my experience as an intern with the Latino Judges Association internship program I have learned how everyday citizens can utilize the Court to find justice for every aspect of their lives. In fact, it would be difficult to find someone whose life has not been touched by the courts in one way or another. This fact demonstrates why our society entrusts judges with immense deference and responsibility. At the very beginning of this internship, I was taught that every decision a judge makes sets a precedent for that courtroom. Furthermore, a judge’s connection to the community informs their decisions and helps tailor their work to serve that community.
TAdditionally, this internship has given me a sense of confidence and belonging in a courtroom. As a result of this experience, I know I can walk into any courtroom and adapt to the type of law practiced there. More importantly, I understand that every law, judicial decision, or court rule is created with intention. By understanding the judge’s or lawmakers’ intentions I can fashion my arguments to ensure the best possible outcome for my client.
Lastly, this internship has given me a sense of community in a space that historically excluded people of color. By the time I enter my second year of law school, I will have a network of influential individuals I can call upon for guidance.
Rafael Lopez
Mr. Lopez is a native New Yorker; born in Brooklyn and raised in Queens. During the Fall of 2025, he will be returning to New York Law School as a 2L! There, he will be serving as a member of NYLS’s Trial Competition Team and serving on the Executive Board for NYLS’s Criminal Law Society.
Reflections: My Summer 2025 judicial internship with the Latino Judges Association (“LJA”) has afforded me the invaluable experience in complex legal research and writing.
As such, I interned at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York (“EDNY”) for two weeks and was given assignments that required meticulous research and writing; I am pleased that my writing assignment would not only serve as a writing sample, but as a writing model to future interns at the EDNY.
Additionally, the LJA internship provided me insight on the vast cases that many sitting Judges oversee. Through the LJA, I had the opportunity to converse with Judges, discussing topics such as but not limited to, the process of narrowing an issue(s) in dispute and how to approach such issue(s), the characteristics that Judges look for in an attorney, searching the appropriate caselaw necessary, and the appropriate citations required by a given court, etc. Also, I am glad to have observed trials, sentence hearings, cross-examinations, summations, and oral arguments!
All in all, I have made genuine connections with Judges and court attorneys by virtue of conferences and meetings. With all this, I take my experience with the LJA to the classroom and eventually to the courtroom!
Olivia Ramirez
CUNY School of Law, Class of 2027
Olivia was raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, and is of Puerto Rican descent. She is currently a 2L at CUNY School of Law, where she is a teaching assistant and a member of the Latin American Law Students Association. Prior to attending law school in New York, she worked as a paralegal in Washington, D.C. Olivia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Affairs and Spanish and Latin American Languages, Literatures, and Cultures from George Washington University.
Reflections: Interning with the LJA and each of the distinguished judges was a remarkable
experience. I have gained an amazing overview of various courts and proceedings, from
watching an all-Latino bench at the 1st Department to guardianship proceedings in the Bronx. I
was able to see the inner workings of the court and find role models in so many of the judges and
attorneys I interacted with. Observing various approaches to legal practice and advocacy has
helped me better understand the kind of lawyer I want to be and how to be an effective advocate.
I am so grateful for the time and dedication each judge and their team took in teaching and
advising me. I have acquired numerous practical skills, including improving my research and
writing skills, and have received valuable advice that I will draw upon as I progress in my career.
I am incredibly proud and honored to have been a part of this program. It has been a fantastic
start to my career, and the knowledge and connections I have gained will serve me well for years
to come.
Spring 2025
Yessica Martinez
Reflecting on my Spring Internship experience with the Latino Judges Association, I am grateful for the invaluable exposure I gained across multiple areas of law. From witnessing my first homicide trial to gaining insight into appellate practice, this experience provided me with a well-rounded perspective on the judicial process. I had the privilege of learning from inspiring and dedicated Latinx judges whose mentorship challenged me to think critically and refine my legal skills.
Throughout this internship, I developed new skills that I will carry forward in my legal career. I have become a stronger oral advocate, which will serve me well in Moot Court, and I now feel more confident in my ability to navigate the legal profession. Observing these judges handle complex legal matters with precision and professionalism has reinforced my passion for the law, and I look forward to applying these lessons as I continue my journey.
David De La Cruz
My Spring 2025 judicial internship with the Latino Judges Association bridged theory and practice in ways law school coursework alone cannot. Working alongside three respected jurists provided valuable insight into how justice operates across different levels of New York’s judicial system.
The condensed timeframe of this two-month internship created an immersive experience, with new legal challenges each day. I observed distinct judicial approaches across vastly different case types, from appellate work to family matters in Surrogate’s Court. This exposure enhanced my understanding of effective advocacy in ways that complement my prior experiences.
As a first-generation Latino law student, I felt a strong connection observing accomplished Latiné judges navigate the legal field. What impacted me the most was seeing how these judges recognized their responsibility to prioritize diversity and inclusion within our legal system. Their mentorship highlighted the value of my bilingual skills and cross-cultural perspective as assets for advocacy. As I approach the end of my 2L year at CUNY Law, I carry enhanced research skills, a solid understanding of legal procedures, and a deeper appreciation for how representation on the bench can fundamentally transform access to justice.
Summer 2024
Luciano O. Reinoso
Touro University Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center
My Summer With The LJA
This summer experience is not one I would have traded for any other. The LJA internship was an eye opening 10-week long glance at how Judges, court attorneys, clerks and litigators navigate their roles within the court system and advocate for justice—an experience I feel is critical to an aspiring attorney looking to bolster their understanding of the court system.
The connections I made with various judges, justices and court attorneys was genuine, and while I expected as much, it filled me with pride every day to report to knowledgeable and respected individuals who are so willing to lend their understanding and perspective on their respective areas of law. Observation, research, and document drafting were all equally critical to the better understanding of the New York court system that I achieved this summer, as a non-traditional veteran law school student.
It was a true honor to be a part of this program, and one I know I will be excited to pay forward one day!
Max Romero
My summer as an intern for the Latino Judges Association was truly an opportunity of a lifetime. Throughout the summer I had the honor of working in the chambers of numerous esteemed judges in New York City. Aside from being able to develop the skills that a 1L looks to improve
during their first summer internship, this internship also taught me the importance and value that diversity has on the bench and in the lawyering profession as a whole in a way that one could only learn through this experience. As a first-gen law student myself, I felt that the connections I built with my assigned judges formed so easily because of our shared experiences and similar backgrounds. LJA judges also knew how difficult it may be for Latinx students to earn judicial internships. As a result, you are assigned to judges who are interested in seeing you succeed and also allow for you to be challenged by assigning interns complex legal issues that go above what is taught to you in the classroom. Overall, I am grateful for all the connections I have been able to make through my internship this summer with the help of the Latino Judges Association and look forward to seeing the program help others like myself.
Summer 2023
Edianys Lima Enriquez
Rutgers Law School-Newark, Class of 2024
Edianys is a first-generation law student born in Cuba and raised in New Jersey. She is involved in the Association for Latin American Law Students (ALALS), the Hispanic Bar Association-NJ (HBA-NJ), and the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA). In her last year of law school, Edianys is looking forward to being a staff editor for the Rutgers Journal of Law and Public Policy. She holds a Bachelor’s in Sociology with minors in Psychology and International Studies from The College of New Jersey. After college, she worked as an immigration paralegal in the non-profit sector and then at a boutique firm in California before returning to New Jersey for law school.
Reflections: I’m so grateful to have spent my last summer of law school with the LJA Summer Program. It was truly amazing to meet and learn from all the judges, clerks, and court attorneys. This experience opened my eyes to the wealth of opportunities and career paths available within the judiciary. It also strengthened my confidence and legal writing skills as I was challenged to draft opinions on behalf of the judges. The feedback I obtained was unparalleled and I look forward to nurturing the relationships created this summer and expanding the network for future law students.
Sofia Gomez
CUNY Law
I am from Jackson Heights, Queens, NY, I am of Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Cuban descent. Currently I am a 2L at CUNY Law. There I serve as the Co-Director of the Latin American Law Student Association (LALSA). I hold a bachelor’s degree in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from Fordham University.
Reflections: This internship has been an exceptional experience—truly one in a million. I entered without knowing what to expect, and the uniqueness of this opportunity has been astounding. The exposure to various courts and the chance to connect with remarkable individuals make it stand out. Witnessing more courtrooms than even some seasoned attorneys underscores its exceptional nature. This internship provides insight into both sides of litigation and unveils the inner workings of the court system. Different judicial styles come to light, and each court functions as its distinct ecosystem. This firsthand experience imparts knowledge that’s impossible to grasp otherwise. Through this internship, I’ve successfully translated theoretical law school teachings into real-world applications. This has firmly anchored these concepts within me. The Latino Judges Association Summer Internship has left an indelible mark on my professional journey.
Summer 2022
Carmen M. Lopez
Penn State Law, Class of 2024
Carmen, a first-generation law student, was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area to parents of Nicaraguan decent. She interned with the Latino Judges Association in the summer of 2022. Following her internship, she served on the National Latina/o Law Student Association (NLLSA) executive board during the academic year as well as Penn State Law’s Latino Law Students Association (LLSA) and National Security Law Society (NSLS) executive boards. During her 2L summer, she interned for the New York Police Department’s License Division while serving on NLLSA’s executive board for a second year. Currently, Carmen serves as a clinical student at Penn State Law’s Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic and on the NSLS and Military Law Caucus (MLC) executive boards. Her post-graduate goals remain to serve and represent individuals from underrepresented communities.
Carmen holds a Bachelor’s in History with minors in Legal Studies and Philosophy from Walla Walla University, Washington.
Reflections: The Latino Judges Association Summer Internship Program provided an invaluable experience that I shall carry throughout as a law student and into my legal career. An introduction to the New York court system was something I did not expect as I am from California, but I loved every second of it. I am honored to have had the pleasure to work with and learn from such accomplished Judges, Justices, and court attorneys.
Summer 2021
Jazmin Reynoso Ortiz
City University of New York, Class of 2023
Currently Staff Attorney for the Detention and Deportation Defense Initiative with the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) Immigrant Rights Program.
Jazmin Reynoso Ortiz is a first-generation immigrant from the Dominican Republic. She is currently a 1L (class of 2023) at the City University of New York School of Law, where she is an active member of the Latin American Law Student Association (LALSA), MetroLALSA, and the Woman of Color Collective (WOCC). Jazmin has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Public Policy with a concentration in Economics. Jazmin is very passionate about immigrant rights and criminal defense. She is determined to push for systemic reform through litigation. Jazmin strives to represent and provide support to the underrepresented and systematically oppressed by both social and legal structures. She further strives to engage in a client-centered framework that considers the goals of the clients and invites a collaborative relationship where clients can actively participate in their own representation. Jazmin is looking forward to networking and developing new skills that are highly valued as a litigator.
Summer 2020
Sebastian Blanco
Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University, Class of 2021
Sebastian was born and raised in New York to parents from Colombia. He received his JD from Hofstra University in 2022. At Hofstra, Sebastian served as the Vice President of the Latin American Law Student Association (LALSA) and as a Notes and Comments Editor for the Journal of International Business and Law (JIBL). Sebastian received his undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware where he received a B.A. in International Relations. Currently, Sebastian practices immigration law where he assists asylum seekers and other immigrants adjust their status.
Reflections: While interning at the Latino Judges Association I was able to get firsthand experience behind the scenes of the courtroom. It was not only an incredibly beneficial learning experience, but I was also able to build relationships with some incredible judges as well as fellow interns.
Ana Ramirez
St. John’s University School of Law, Class of 2022
Currently at: St. John’s – Legal Writing Teaching Assistant
Ana is currently attending St. John’s University School of Law where she is a member of the Latin American Law Students Association and the Real Property Law Society. She is also a staff member of the New York Real Property Law Journal and works as a Teaching Assistant for Legal Writing. Prior to moving to New York for law school, she worked as a legal assistant in Washington D.C. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida where she graduated with a B.A. in International and Global Studies and a minor in Russian Studies. Ana comes from a military family and has Nicaraguan and Ecuadorian roots.
Reflections: The LJA internship provided the unique and invaluable experience of working directly with Judges and Justices at various levels in the New York court system. I learned something new every day, whether it was from debriefing with the Judge or Justice and court attorney, observing virtual proceedings, or completing research and writing projects. I developed meaningful relationships and engaged in productive discussions during each rotation. I am grateful for the LJA’s efforts in building such a robust program for law students.
Summer 2019
Catherine Polanco
University at Buffalo School of Law, Class of 2021
My commitment to public service was solidified as an intern for the LJA. It was a demystifying experience. This internship introduced me to the judicial court system in New York City. The biweekly rotation court incorporated into this program exposed me to the functionalities of courts such as the Court of Appeals, Appellate Division (First Department), Court of Claims, AnnCriminal Court, Federal Court, Family Court, and Surrogate Court, Housing Court, and Civil Court. The Judges and their staff were open and enthusiastic about sharing their professional experiences with me, which I am eternally grateful for.
Cesar Ruiz
City University of New York School of Law, Class of 2021
Cesar Z. Ruiz interned with Latino Judges Association in the summer of 2019. Following his internship, he served a year long term as a CUNY’s Center on Latinx Rights and Equality Fellow while also interning for LatinoJustice PRLDEF during the spring term and summer term of 2020. Since 2021 he has worked at LatinoJustice PRLDEF (first as an Equal Justice Works Legal Fellow and now serves as an associate counsel) advocating for Latinx rights and equality in the area of voting rights and redistricting. He is deeply passionate about civil rights and is committed to furthering the visibility and interests of his comunidad through impact litigation, advocacy, community outreach and education.
Reflections: My experience as an LJA intern was transformative. It allowed me not only to develop my legal skills but connect with trailblazing and inspirational leaders in my community. Above all it was a chance to be a part of something bigger than myself and it let me know I was not alone in my struggle to fight for a better world por mi gente.
Summer 2018
Israel Rodriguez Rubio
Columbia Law School, Class of 2020
Currently at: Dechert LLP
Israel Rodríguez Rubio (he/him) is a finance associate, focusing on public and private commercial mortgage-backed securitizations, in the Charlotte, NC office of Dechert LLP. He is a member of Dechert’s Latino and LGBTQ Affinity Groups and, in 2022, he was recognized as a Diversity Champion through the Dechert STARS Awards program. Israel earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School, where he was named a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar and served as a managing editor for the Columbia Journal of Transnational Law, and B.A. in Women’s and Gender Studies from Columbia College. Originally from Mexico, Israel is proudly a first-generation college graduate.
Reflections: During my internship with the Latino Judges Association, I had the opportunity to apply my legal education in a practical and supportive environment and gained greater insight into the various courts that comprise the New York legal system. I got the chance to meet many accomplished professionals, and I appreciate that I got to learn from their personal and professional experiences navigating the legal field. In retrospect, I had an incredible time and I am happy to remain connected with the many judges, lawyers, and the other legal professionals I had the privilege of meeting that summer.
Summer 2017
Jessica Orellana
CUNY School of Law, Class of 2019
Currently at: Assistant Law Clerk to the Honorable Michele Titus, Queens County Supreme Court.
Jessica Orellana was born and raised in Jamaica Queens, New York to parents of El Salvadoran decent. She is currently an Assistant Law Clerk to the Honorable Michele Titus in Queens County, Supreme Court. Prior to becoming a law clerk, she was an Assistant Corporation Counsel with the New York City Law Department, Tort Division in Brooklyn for three years.
Jessica graduated from Queens College and earned a B.A. in Urban Studies and Sociology in 2010. She grew up in a bilingual household, and while in college, she was a volunteer at the Women’s Prison Association. She continued her studies at New York University, completing an ABA Paralegal Diploma in 2012. Prior to enrolling in law school, Jessica worked as a paralegal at Panzavecchia & Associates, PLLC, where she focused on immigration rights, criminal defense, and torts litigation.
At CUNY School of Law, Jessica traveled to Memphis, Tennessee to promote justice and human rights for people in the South in partnership with other civil rights organizations in Mississippi. During her first-year, Jessica served as a legal intern for the Latino Judges Association working with several judges in several courts throughout New York State. Jessica was chosen as the Puerto Rican Bar Association recipient of the Justice Sallie Manzanet-Daniels Dare to Dream Scholarship. Thereafter, she interned with Ahmuty, Demers & McManus alongside Judge Lourdes Ventura earning the Hispanic Bar Association scholarship award. As a product of the NYC School system, Jessica will continue to work with the NYS Unified Court System. She aspires to follow the steps of her mentors and become a Judge one day.
Reflections: Interning with the Latino Judges Association was one of the greatest opportunities in my life. I met Judges who became my mentors and have helped me become who I am today.
Summer 2016
Andrea F. Rodriguez
Fordham University School of Law, Class of 2018
Currently: Vice President and Associate Counsel at Build America Mutual Assurance Company (BAM)
Andrea Rodriguez is currently a Vice President and Associate Counsel at Build America Mutual Assurance Company (BAM). BAM is a mutual bond insurer of essential public-purpose U.S. municipal bonds. At BAM, Andrea manages new primary market transactions, from underwriting through closing, advises underwriters and drafts and negotiates documentation, among other responsibilities. She also supports BAM’s regulatory group, which is responsible for its regulatory oversight and compliance. Prior to joining BAM, Andrea was an associate in the Capital Markets group at White & Case LLP, where her practice focused on domestic and cross-border financing transactions and general corporate representations. Andrea represented and advised U.S. and Latin American issuers and underwriters on U.S. securities and corporate law in a full range of debt and equity transactions. Outside of her practice, Andrea is involved with local and national bar associations, most recently completing her term as a Business Law Fellow for the American Bar Association’s Business Law Section, where she also serves as co-chair of the Women’s Business Law Network. Andrea also serves as a mentor to law students through Fordham Law School’s L.A.M.P. program and MetroLALSA’s mentorship program.
Born in Quito, Ecuador, Andrea received her B.A. degree, summa cum laude in Legal Studies with a minor in Psychology from St. John’s University in 2012, and a J.D., cum laude, from Fordham University School of Law in 2018.
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